‘Please put us on your Christmas list and help people with dementia’ urges Alzheimer’s Society Cymru

People across Wales are being urged to ‘put Alzheimer’s Society Cymru on their Christmas list’ as the charity seeks to ensure no one affected by dementia goes without the support they need over the festive season.

The charity has led the way in highlighting the devastating impact lockdown has had on those with the condition and their loved ones in Wales. And it’s at the forefront of a campaign to end restrictions that have prevented family members from hugging, or even holding hands with, loved ones living with dementia in care homes.

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is calling for designated family members to be given ‘key worker status’ which includes access to PPE and rapid, regular testing.

This acknowledges the vital role families often play in caring for loved ones in care homes, from assisting them with tasks such as eating and drinking, to helping them articulate their needs, which can prove critical.

The charity’s dedicated army of expert Dementia Advisers are preparing for what could be their busiest ever festive period as people continue to struggle with isolation and loneliness, due to the current restrictions.

Dementia Advisers offer a personalised support service for people affected by dementia and provide advice, information and can connect people to other local services.

Kate Lee, Alzheimer’s Society’s Chief Executive, said:

“Since lockdown began in March, Alzheimer’s Society Cymru’s vital support services have been used more than 2.7 million times and are proving to be a lifeline for thousands of people.

“More than a quarter of all coronavirus deaths have been people living with dementia, making them the worst-hit by the pandemic. Many more are isolated from social contact, essential health and care support which is why we need people to donate to our Christmas Appeal so anyone struggling will have a Dementia Adviser on hand when they need them.

“Your support could help make sure no one faces dementia alone. Donating is easy – simply visit alzheimers.org.uk”

Kevin Jones, from Wrexham, cares for his partner, Jean, who is living with dementia. Jean has been a resident in a local care home for three years. Prior to the pandemic, Kevin used to visit Jean at the care home every day. Kevin said:

“Whilst visiting in March, the care home manager spoke to me and said that I had to leave as the home was going into lockdown. I tried to explain to my partner that I was unsure of when I could see her next, but she just didn’t understand.

“That would be the first time in 30 years that Jean and I have ever been separated – we’ve always been together. I can only communicate by shouting through the window at her.

“I’ve asked staff if I can be allowed to sit next to her and hold her hand, but I have been told no. I still go every Sunday to see her, but honestly, it leaves me in tears every time as I can’t touch or speak to the woman I love.

“I received a call from a Dementia Adviser at Alzheimer’s Society Cymru who asked if I wanted to receive a companion call and I said yes please. I was really thankful, because I knew that there was someone out there that would support me. Someone I could talk to. That was my lifeline.”

The charity’s next major fundraising activity will be a star-studded virtual ‘Carols at Christmas’ event on Thursday 17 December, hosted by Oscar-nominated actress Carey Mulligan and featuring readings from actor Jonathan Pryce, actress Lesley Manville and Sir Trevor McDonald.

Pop group Scouting for Girls will sing their version of Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’. Also performing will be 80-year-old musician Paul Harvey, who is living with dementia.

Paul, who was born in Stoke on Trent and studied at the Guildhall School of Music, made headlines around the world when a video of his composition, ‘Four Notes’, was viewed millions of times. The song has since been released with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra as a charity single.

Taking part in the virtual event, which begins at 6:30pm, is free. However, Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is asking audience members to consider making a donation to support its vital work. To register or for further information, visit alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer’s Society Cymru is here for anyone affected by dementia through its Dementia Connect support line on 0333 150 3456 (or call our Wales support line on 0300 222 1122). Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Advisers provide information and support on how to stay safe, active and social during this difficult time. Phone lines are open seven days a week.